Is CBD Legal in New Zealand?

CBD is a prescription-only medicine in New Zealand. Since the Misuse of Drugs Amendment Act 2017 removed CBD from controlled-drug scheduling, CBD products containing no more than 2% THC plus other specified cannabinoids relative to total CBD content can be prescribed by any registered medical practitioner. CBD is classified as a prescription medicine under the Medicines Act 1981, meaning it cannot be sold over the counter, online to consumers, or in health-food stores.

Under the Medicinal Cannabis Scheme, CBD products meeting the minimum quality standard set by the Medicinal Cannabis Agency are available through pharmacies on prescription. Sativex (nabiximols) remains the only CBD-containing product with full Medsafe approval, while other CBD products are supplied as approved-quality unapproved medicines. Possession of a CBD product without a prescription is treated as possession of a prescription medicine without authorisation under the Medicines Act, attracting fines. Importing CBD for personal use without a prescription is prohibited; patients with a valid NZ prescription may import up to a 3-month supply with Ministry of Health authorisation.